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Buck & Co Jewellers,
Goldsmiths & Diamond Mounters
Crafted with Excellence
February Birthstone:
Amethyst
As we move into February it is time again for birthstone of the month: the beautiful amethyst.
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Amethyst has been used in jewellery since antiquity, and during the Greek and Roman period became associated with the god of wine, Dionysus. The name amethyst is derived from the Greek word 'amethystos' meaning 'not drunken'. Drinking goblets were carved out of large amethyst crystals, or drinking vessels were studded with amethyst stones in the belief that it could prevent drunkenness. This belief persists into modern times, with some people believing that when in contact with the skin, an amethyst can cure a hangover.
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Amethyst is a crystalline quartz gemstone (Silicon Dioxide), quartz being one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust, which can be found worldwide. Coloured by an impurity of iron, the amethyst is related to other colourful gemstones such citrine, smokey quartz and rose quartz. Amethyst grows in trigonal prismatic crystals, often in geodes which can be cracked open to display the beautiful crystals hidden inside. The purple colouration tends to be darker at the termination (or pointed) end of the crystal, and this is where the finest quality gemstones are cut from.
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Amethyst is an excellent and practical choice for wear in jewellery, with a Mohs hardness of 7, and is robust and tough enough to withstand daily wear. However, guard against thermal shock, and be aware that amethyst can fade and lose saturation in strong sunlight. Knocks and blows can also result in conchoidal (or shell-like) fractures which can damage the exterior surface of the stone, and prevent light from travelling internally leading to dullness.
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Pictured are some beautiful amethyst pieces of jewellery available for viewings at our shop in Bodmin. Drop in and see us for viewings, or discuss the commission piece of your dreams!

A selection of new and secondhand amethyst rings, available for viewing at Buck & Co, Bodmin.

Buck & Co Jewellers is a family-owned business with over 40 years of experience in the jewellery industry. We offer a wide range of services including bespoke designs, repairs and insurance valuations. We are a husband and wife team consisting of a qualified and experienced Jeweller, Diamond Mounter, Gold and Silversmith, and a certified Gemmologist. We take pride in crafting each piece of jewellery with excellence, ensuring that it meets our high standards of quality.
At Buck & Co Jewellers, we offer a personalised service, where your work is carried out in our fully insured workshop located in The Market House Arcade in Bodmin, a Grade II listed building. We have options to suit all budgets and tastes, and offer free consultations to discuss your desired commission work.

